They’ve done it again! Andy Murray thrilled the Glasgow crowd after beating John Isner 7-6(4), 6-3, 7-6(4) to send the Aegon GB Davis Cup Team into the quarter-finals of the competition.
The British No.1 was in fine form as he overcame the spirited American in straight sets to set up a July home clash with France in the last eight of the Davis Cup by BNP Paribas.
Murray sparked a frenzy in the stands and was mobbed by captain Leon Smith and the whole team after sealing the vital third rubber to take an unassailable 3-1 lead.
The Emirates Arena was again packed to the rafters as the players walked onto court and a big mention must go to all the supporters who have created a special atmosphere all week.
Smith has now led Great Britain to consecutive quarter-finals and consecutive wins over Jim Courier’s USA after also coming out on top in San Diego last year.
Isner, who lost to James Ward in a five set epic on Friday, came out all guns blazing and had seven break points in the opening set.
When he failed to capitalize on three set points when leading 5-4, Murray took the upper hand and dominated the tie-break by seven points to four.
With Isner’s trademark big serve still going strong Murray had to show some stunning returns to break his 6ft 10inch opponent and lead 4-2 in the second set, which he wrapped up 6-3.
Despite a few nervous moments on serve, the third set went to a tie-break which Murray held his nerve and took control early on.
A big first serve sent him on his way to ending the tie before jubilant scenes and some questionable dancing broke out on the court!
In the final dead rubber, Ward was leading Donald Young 7-5, 0-1 when he was forced to retire through injury.
Great Britain, who lost to Italy last April, will now play a home quarter-final of the competition for the first time since 1986.
Well done Leon, Andy, James, Dom, Jamie and the whole team!
Andy Murray quotes:
“It was a deserved win. I think the effort and attitude of everyone in the team was excellent. Everyone fought extremely hard.
“This is a team effort and everyone played their part. It was a pleasure to be part of this team and all of the staff were incredible the whole week. To be in the quarter-final for a second year in a row is incredible.
“I always love playing Davis Cup and these guys make it special and on behalf of all of the players I want to say a big thank you to the crowd as it was one of the most special atmospheres I have ever played in.”